FPL approved to modernize Port Evergaldes facility

New project is projected to save customers $469 million

TALLAHASSEE, Fl. - Flower Power & Light (FPL) has received approval from the Florida Public Service Commission (PSC) to modernize its Port Everglades Next Generation Energy Center in Broward County.

FPL says that beginning in 2014, they will construct a 1,277 megawatt combined cycle natural gas unit which will provide power to 260,000 homes and businesses. The construction will take about two years, but once complete it will improve the company's overall system efficiency, enhance fuel supply reliability, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Four other electric generating units, which were built in the 1960s, will be torn down as part of the construction project. The company says the new Port Everglades facility will save customers $469 million, and its construction will generate 650 jobs.